A Morning of Anticipation

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as my wife and I found ourselves in Turrialba, ready for a new kind of adventure. We had heard whispers of the Pacuare River Adventure and its legendary rapids, and as seasoned surfers, we couldn’t resist the call of the water, even if it wasn’t the ocean. Roberto and his son, Roberto Jr., greeted us with warm smiles and a punctuality that set the tone for the day. As we made our way to the river, picking up our guide Chalo along the way, the excitement was palpable. Chalo, a veteran of the river since the 1980s, exuded a calm confidence that immediately put us at ease.

The drive to the put-in was filled with stories of past adventures and the promise of what lay ahead. As we arrived, the river was ours alone, a rare and exhilarating feeling. The absence of other rafts meant we could fully immerse ourselves in the experience, the sounds of nature our only soundtrack.

Riding the Rapids

The Pacuare River is a sight to behold, its beauty rivaling any beach I’ve ever surfed. The lush greenery and untouched landscape were a refreshing change from the bustling beach towns I’m used to. As we set off, the water was low, but Chalo’s expertise ensured we navigated the rapids with ease. His humor and knowledge made the journey not just safe, but incredibly fun.

Roberto Jr. followed us in a kayak, capturing moments on camera that we could relive later. The rapids were thrilling, each one a new challenge that we tackled with enthusiasm. The Apex raft was top-notch, and the equipment was familiar, reminiscent of my surfing gear back home. As we paddled, we were treated to sightings of toucans and even a monkey, a reminder of the vibrant wildlife that calls this river home.

A Riverside Feast

Midway through our journey, we pulled over for a riverside lunch. The spread was simple yet satisfying, with burritos and fresh guacamole that hit the spot. It was a moment to relax, to soak in the surroundings and share stories with our fellow adventurers.

As the day came to a close, we reached the take-out point, where a room with showers awaited us. Changing into dry clothes was a welcome relief, and the thoughtfulness of the setup was appreciated. Roberto Sr. was there, waiting with the van, ready to take us back to our hotel. The day had been seamless, a testament to the experience and dedication of the Ticos River Adventures team.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that while the ocean will always be my first love, the river had offered something unique and unforgettable. If you find yourself in Costa Rica, seeking a break from the waves, the Pacuare River Adventure is a must. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a way that’s both thrilling and serene, a perfect complement to the sun-soaked life we surfers cherish.